Organization of the Year: Black Philanthropy Initiative

Organization of the Year

Historically, African Americans have always opened their hearts, homes and wallets to help friends, family members and even complete strangers. The Black Philanthropy Initiative of the Winston-Salem Foundation has taken that tradition and amplified it.

Started more than a dozen years ago, BPI has given forward-thinking African Americans a way to pool their talents and resources, while allowing the black community to see the many benefits of philanthropic giving.

In 2007, BPI created a fund to offer financial support to programs and initiatives that impact local African Americans. Over the years, more than $100,000 in grants have been awarded to about 20 organizations.

The money has funded innovative education programs for young people; provided parenting and life skills training; and a variety of financial literacy classes. The lives of hundreds of local residents have been positively impacted as a result.

For illuminating the power and beauty of giving, The Chronicle and the community it serves are proud to call The Black Philanthropy Initiative our Organization of the Year.